Spurs have a De’Aaron Fox problem they just can’t shake

Last season, Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox was freed from his shackles and sent to his desired destination in San Antonio. However, upon arrival, the point guard looked like a shell of his former self. Whether it be an acclimation to his new team or the results of a lingering hand injury, De'Aaron wasn't right. Unfortunately for him, things aren't getting any better.

Preparing for Spurs media day, many fans had one strong concern on their minds: the health of their star point guard. Healed from his surgery over the summer, Fox has a new worry. This time around, the 27-year-old is battling a hamstring injury, and it doesn't appear to be going away.

At media day, Fox shared a quote regarding his status for the upcoming season: “I don’t think I’ll be ready for opening night.” Fox will be missing all of training camp, as well as the preseason. Obviously, this is a massive issue and one that the Spurs can't seem to get rid of.

De'Aaron Fox can't seem to get right

All summer, Spurs faithful were counting down the days to opening night to see how their newest star would fare on the court. The expectations for Fox are through the roof, and the team's success will ride on his shoulders. However, we may need to hold our horses because something is not right with Swipa.

Before the injury, the 2025-26 season presented our first proper look at De'Aaron Fox in his complete form. Spurs fans would finally get to see what the future holds for the former All-Star. Yet now, that future just got a whole lot more grim. Before the season even starts, it is once again off the rails for Fox.

Some may not be surprised by this devastating revelation. Throughout his career, Fox has dealt with a string of lingering issues and nagging injuries. While it may be too early to label him injury-prone, the panic meter is quickly rising.

The De'Aaron Fox injury has harsh repercussions

The results of Fox's prognosis are a detriment to the entire Spurs team. The Alamo City was ready to get out of the mud and make a leap into the playoffs for the first time since 2019. However, with their lead guard out for the start of the season and expected to nurse a hamstring for some time, their aspirations may not become a reality.

De'Aaron Fox is essential to the Spurs' success. The hasty point guard was ready to carry lead-ball handler duties and be the outlet for other Spurs to thrive. Most notably, the combination of Victor Wembanyama and Fox was one of the most highly anticipated aspects of the Spurs' upcoming season. Connecting these two is one of Mitch Johnson's top priorities, and sadly, that will need to wait.

Even when Fox returns, he may not be able to play at the level we know he is capable of. Facing this massive hurdle, the dreams of the former All-NBA member returning to this prestigious club are dying a hurried death.

It may not be an overreaction that Fox's injury could be the demise of the 2025-26 Spurs. In the Western Conference, teams need all hands on deck, and every win is important. Without Fox to begin the season, the Spurs may miss out on those undeniably important victories.

Bathing in disappointment, it is essential to hold faith in Fox. He is a dedicated athlete who will do everything in his power to get on the court and prepare himself. There's no doubt in my mind that we will get the De'Aaron that we have imagined; it just may take some time to get there.